wanting

[won-ting, wawn-] / ˈwɒn tɪŋ, ˈwɔn- /

ADJECTIVE

lacking, inadequate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

deficient unfulfilled

STRONG

absent bankrupt cooked deprived disappointing empty failing gone missing needed omitted scant short shy

WEAK

away bereft burned out cut off defective destitute devoid faulty half-baked imperfect in default incomplete inferior less minus not good enough not up to par out of gas patchy poor scanty scarce sketchy substandard too little too late unsound

Antonyms

STRONG

adequate enough existing present sufficient

WEAK

perfect satisfactory

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Platner has criticized the media for its reporting, saying they “are going to run gossip instead of wanting to talk about the things that actually matter.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 6, 2026

"I'm overjoyed that visitors are watching the sari and wanting to find out more about it. It's a fantastic addition to our collection," Shindell says.

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

Barker has said that, in writing the film, he wanted to explore the fear of men “not saying the right thing, or not wanting to come off like a creep.”

From Salon • Jun. 4, 2026

The first impression he makes is off the charts, which piques the curiosity of strangers wanting to learn more.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2026

“Maybe Leo doesn’t have to come in,” I say, wanting to help him out.

From "Clairboyance" by Kristiana Kahakauwila

Vocabulary lists containing wanting

Nobody's Home: Synonyms For "Absent"

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Absent

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Lacking

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